I have been volunteering with the harm reduction center for about 9 months. This organization holds human dignity at the center of its operation. From the day of my orientation, I was shown that AHRC takes people where they are at that day, provides the services available, and offers authentic explanations referrals and understanding when there is something they cannot provide a visitor. As a volunteer, I am acknowledged and valued every week i show up, and that is a wonderful feeling.

The concept of harm reduction does not get much play in the world of recovery, and that is another reason I love AHRC. Because harm reduction is the real time response to what is actually going on with people. They acknowledge the truth about issues faced by people who use drugs and have sex.

Another great thing about AHRC is that it recognizes the contexts of people's lives. In the neighborhood where AHRC operates it would be a farce to tell people to "just say no" when many people live without their basic needs being met. AHRC makes a dollar out of fifteen cents, and makes sure people get fed, clothed, and have a place to talk about what is going on.

One last thing I love about AHRC is the way that they don't make you answer a million irrelevant questions before providing service. They get the information they need but do not ask a person to disclose highly personal things on the first visit, like some social service agencies.

I love AHRC. Their aim is true.